9 Best Micellar Cleansing Waters For Acne
Easily remove makeup on acne-prone skin without agitating dark spots and pimples.
Dr. Enrizza Factor is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc. She is also a member of the Philippine Academy of Cutaneous Surgery and an Associate of the Philippine Society of Venerology Inc.
Read full bio of Dr. Enrizza Factor
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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Micellar water is a gentle formula whose consistency is similar to regular water. It is basically soft water with micelles. It cleanses and moisturizes the skin and is your super savior to remove light makeup quickly. If you have acne-prone skin, removing your makeup can be a challenge. But having the best micellar waters handy makes the daunting task of makeup removal easier. They are formulated with micelles (a cleansing fluid), which can attract all dirt, makeup, and other residues from deep within your skin pores. These oil molecules offer a deep skin cleanse without stripping the natural oils from the skin. They are infused with skin-loving ingredients to deliver additional benefits to the skin.
Dr. Enrizza Factor, MD, Philippine Dermatological Society, says, “Micellar water really is a make-up remover made of purified water and an assortment of surfactants. But don’t mistake this for the same thing as any old cleanser – these surfactants make up “micelles” (hence the name), which act as magnets to draw out the oil, dirt, and impurities on the surface of your skin. This includes all the make-up you would ordinarily spend five minutes trying to scrub off with a regular cleanser.”
In this article, we have listed the 9 best micellar cleansing waters for acne-prone skin. Check them out now.
In This Article
9 Best Micellar Cleansing Waters For Acne Prone Skin
1. Best Hypoallergenic: SKINTIFIQUE Cleanser P
This facial cleansing water by SKINTIFIQUE removes excess oil, impurities, makeup, and traces of pollution from your skin. The no-rinse formula is gentle on the skin and protects your skin from allergies caused by metals such as nickel, chromium, and cobalt. This hypoallergenic cleanser is suitable for people with eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and dry skin conditions.
Key Ingredients: Polysorbate 20, Poloxamer 184, Hexanediol, and Chlorphenesin
Pros
- Doctor-recommended
- Gentle formula
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-irritating
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Mineral oil-free
- No artificial fragrance
- EDTA-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
Pro Tip2. Best Non-Drying: Bioderma Sebium H2O Purifying Cleansing Micelle Solution
This all-in-one clarifying micellar water by Bioderma removes makeup and gently cleanses your skin without drying it out. It is infused with copper and zinc, which help clarify your pores and purify your skin. This well-reviewed micellar solution also contains ginkgo biloba leaf extracts, which eliminate excess oil and help in acne prevention.
Key Ingredients: Ginkgo Biloba leaf extracts, Copper, and Zinc
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-drying
- Dermatologist tested
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May cause irritation
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 7,856 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Fragrance-Free: CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water
This highly popular and hydrating cleanser removes excess oil, sebum, dirt, and makeup. It will leave your skin super conditioned without being greasy or sticky, making it a favorite cleanser for dull and dehydrated skin. The ceramides maintain and restore your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Glycerine provides 24-hour hydration, and niacinamide soothes your skin. Check out the honest review of the CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Ceramides, and Glycerine
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Dermatologist recommended
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
"The product offers gentle cleansing while hydrating the skin. It works well for removing waterproof eye makeup without causing any irritation. It is non-sticky and leaves the skin feeling soft."
Did You Know?Cerave products are developed by dermatologists and are tested by the National Eczema Association, making Cerave one of the safest skin care brands.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 2,875 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
| SKINTIFIQUE Cleanser P Best Hypoallergenic | Bioderma Sebium H2O Purifying Cleansing Micelle Solution Best Non-Drying | CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water Best Fragrance-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Oily | Sensitive,All Skin Types |
| Dimensions | 1.77 x 1.77 x 6.61 inches | 6.9 x 2.9 x 2.9 inches | 4.65 x 2.75 x 6.48 inches |
| Weight | 2.89 Ounces | 1 Pounds | 11.54 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 303 | 7,856 | 2,875 |
| Price | $18 | $16.99 | $26.99 |
4. Best Alcohol-Free: Vichy Pureté Thermale One Step Micellar Water
The Vichy Pureté Micellar Water’s unique micellar technology thoroughly cleanses, removes makeup, soothes, and fortifies sensitive skin, leaving it feeling fresh.The micellar cleanser is enriched with nourishing pro-vitamin B5 to moisturize the skin. It also effectively removes pollutants like smog, grime, and other daily aggressors from your delicate skin. The dermatologist-recommended micellar water does not require any rubbing or rinsing, and leaves the skin feeling moisturized and soothed.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Allergy-tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Soap-free
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Requires rubbing on waterproof makeup
5. Best Dermatologist-Tested: To Do List Cleansing Water
This micellar cleansing water by To Do List is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients, and is not tested on animals. The gentle formula of this quick cleanser removes dirt, debris, makeup, and excess sebum in a single swipe. This pore-minimizing micellar water contains calendula, which stimulates collagen production, while mugwort soothes skin irritation, and lemongrass extract tightens and purifies your pores and is safe for all skin types.
Key Ingredients: Calendula extract, Lemongrass extract, and Mugwort extract
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- Mineral oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
6. Best Non-Sticky: Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water
Add a boost of hydration to your dull skin with this cleansing micellar water by Simple. It gently removes makeup and dirt and maintains clean skin while replenishing the lost moisture of your skin. This dermatologist-tested product has a lightweight consistency and does not make your skin feel tight. It does not leave a greasy or sticky residue after cleansing. If you want to better understand the Simple Water Boost Micellar Cleansing Water, check out the reviewer’s experience in this video.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin and Lactic acid
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- No artificial fragrance or color
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Chemical-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- None
Pro Tip7. Best Ophthalmologist-Tested: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
The Garnier Skin Active Micellar Cleansing Water helps remove makeup from your eyes, face, and lips, leaving your skin perfectly clean. This skin care product deep cleanses your pores and regulates sebum production. This refreshing micellar water eliminates excess oil, dirt, makeup, and grime without any sticky or oily residue.
Key Ingredient: Glycerin
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-sticky
- Non-comedogenic
- No artificial fragrance
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulphate-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This micellar water works well for removing make-up, even waterproof mascara, without leaving any residue. It doesn't dry out my skin or cause breakouts on my sensitive, acne-prone skin."
8. Best Non-Irritating: CAUDALIE Paris Vino Clean Micellar Cleansing Water
Need soothing micellar cleansing water that is suitable for sensitive skin? Then the CAUDALIE Paris is a must-have for your vanity to ensure clean skin. The gentle formula is safe for use on irritated skin and hydrates your skin while removing any traces of makeup or dirt from your pores. This micellar water contains antioxidant-rich chamomile that brightens your dull skin and makes it an effective pore minimizer. Grape water soothes your sensitive and inflamed skin and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier. The sweet scent of the grape water also revitalizes your senses.
Key Ingredients: Chamomile extract and Grape water
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Soap-free
- Lightweight
- Non-irritating
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons
- None
"This micellar cleansing water has not caused any irritation on my combination, acne-prone skin. I use it for daily makeup removal and it has helped in minimizing the appearance of pores. It is a gentle formula with a pleasant scent."
9. Best For Waterproof Makeup: Dickinson’s Micellar Witch Hazel Makeup Remover
The Dickinson’s Micellar Witch Hazel Makeup Remover also refine pores, and is formulated with a combination of micelles and 100% organically distilled witch hazel. The purifying witch hazel in this facial cleanser formula softly washes the skin while the innovative composition helps remove the most stubborn waterproof makeup. It is gentle for sensitive skin as it is also enriched with the goodness of aloe vera.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-drying
- Sulfate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- None
"This product is great for removing makeup without irritating my sensitive skin. It is non-greasy and even helps improve skin texture. I love that it is completely alcohol-free."
Micellar cleansing waters are one of the best go-to makeup removal solutions for clean skin. They effectively remove dirt, sebum, and heavy makeup without stripping the skin barrier. However, if you have acne-prone skin, you must be careful when picking micellar water. Here are some things to remember while testing and choosing the best micellar cleansing water for acne-prone skin that won’t irritate or trigger breakouts.
How To Choose The Best Micellar Cleansing Waters For Acne-Prone Skin
- Skin Type
For acne-prone skin, it is ideal to choose a gentle micellar facial cleanser. Make sure the formula removes makeup in a single swipe, as excessive rubbing can trigger acne flare-ups. It is also vital to choose cleansing water based on your generic skin type.
If you have dry skin, look for micellar cleansing water that effectively eliminates makeup and impurities while keeping your skin hydrated and nourished. Unlike other drying makeup removers, micellar water is astringent-free and does not strip moisture from your skin. Look for labels like ‘hydrating’ and ‘gentle’ on micellar waters before using it on irritated skin.
If you have oily or combination skin, look for micellar waters that can remove makeup, excess oil, and sebum from your face. Look for labels like ‘purifying’ and ‘detoxifying’ on micellar waters.
- Ingredients
Always go through the ingredients list before you choose micellar cleansing water, especially when you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Pick micellar waters with tea tree oil, witch hazel, niacinamide, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and lemongrass, which gently removes makeup and fights acne-causing bacteria. Look for those that are free of alcohol and have a minimal ingredient list.
- Quality
The quality of micellar cleansing water matters the most. To ensure you get the highest quality micellar cleansing water for acne-prone skin, pick one from a reputable brand that offers dermatologist-tested and approved products. Also, look for hypoallergenic, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and mineral oil-free options to avoid any reactions.
Infographic: Micellar Water: Ingredients And Benefits
If you are looking for a product that quickly refreshes your skin and is easy to use on the go, micellar water is what you need. This versatile skin care product can offer multiple benefits for your skin if used regularly. Want to know the benefits of micellar water and ingredients that make it better? Check out the infographic below. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Micellar water is an ideal minimalist product for those who do not have time to perform a 10-step skincare routine. The micellar cleanser is made of soft water that hydrates the skin without disrupting the natural barrier of the skin. Besides removing makeup, it also helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin in just a few simple swipes. It can also be used as a step for your double-cleansing routine. But, if you have acne-prone skin, you need to choose a product that has a gentle formula and is free from harsh chemicals. The SKINTIFIQUE Cleanser P is renowned for its hypoallergenic formulation. If you have oily skin, try the Bioderma Sebium H2O Purifying Cleansing Micelle Solution, while the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water is suitable for all skin types. The products reviewed in the list above have a non-comedogenic formula enriched with nourishing ingredients that soothe your skin. By incorporating micellar water into your skincare routine and considering the insights from these reviews and experienced reviewers, you can expect a refreshed, cleansed complexion with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dermatologists recommend micellar water?
Yes, dermatologists recommend micellar water provides for a deep and effective cleanse.
Can I use moisturizer after micellar water?
Yes, moisturizing your skin after using micellar water is recommended to prevent dryness and sensitivity.
Can I use micellar water three times a day?
Yes. Experts recommend following the double-cleanse routine for your skin with micellar water twice a day, once in the morning and once at the end of the day.
Can you use micellar water with your fingers?
Yes. You can use your fingers to melt the makeup with micellar water, but you need a cotton pad or towel to wipe it off.
Is it okay to use micellar water every day for acne?
Yes, you can introduce micellar water to your daily skin care routine and apply it regularly for healthy skin.
Do I need to wash my face after micellar water?
No, you do not have to rinse your face after using micellar water.
Should I use an acne clear micellar water cleanser first or a foaming face wash?
Use the micellar water before cleansing your face with a foaming face wash.
Can I use an oil micellar water to remove makeup if I have acne-prone skin?
Yes. You can use oil micellar water as it does not lead to breakouts.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. After hours of in-depth research on several products and checking user feedback on brand websites, she has compiled the list of the best micellar cleansing waters for acne-prone skin. These products offer deep skin cleanse without stripping the natural oils.
Read full bio of Dr. Enrizza Factor
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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